Hansi Flick prepares explosive major squad shock ahead of Copa del Rey showdown with big-name changes and surprise inclusions.
The German coach eyes fresh legs across multiple positions, balancing the demands of a packed schedule with the need to keep core players sharp for bigger battles ahead.
Racing, leaders of Segunda División, pose a genuine threat at El Sardinero, especially after lower-tier sides like Albacete stunned Real Madrid in midweek, serving as a stark reminder against complacency.
Key changes centre around Marc Bernal, Roony Bardghji, and Marc Casado, all tipped for rare starting roles in a heavily rotated lineup that could see only four survivors from the Super Cup final XI, as reported by Marca.
With Andreas Christensen and Gavi sidelined by injury, and Frenkie de Jong suspended, Flick hands opportunities to La Masia talents and recent arrivals like the returning Joao Cancelo, who travels despite his recent loan move.
Raphinha’s hamstring concern likely rules him out, paving the way for experimentation in attack and midfield.
Defensively, Gerard Martin could earn a left-back start, while Pau Cubarsí and Eric Garcia anchor the centre, alongside possible inclusions of Ronald Araujo.
Joan Garcia will be in goal, with Pedri the lone midfield mainstay unless rested entirely, as Sport suggests in favour of Alejandro Balde and Jules Koundé.
Up top, Bardghji and Tommy Marques offer dynamism, reflecting Flick’s trust in youth against a Racing side desperate to protect their promotion push—currently level on 38 points with Las Palmas.
Coach Jose Alberto, missing forward Asier Villalibre, may also rotate, but sent a strong XI past Villarreal previously.
Barcelona, 14-time quarter-finalists in 15 years, aim to extend their knockout dominance under Flick—five straight ties unbeaten.
Yet Racing’s form demands respect, forcing the Catalan giants to blend experience with opportunity in a tie that tests squad depth amid title pursuits across fronts.
Want to get the latest Barcelona news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
